lineman

noun

line·​man ˈlīn-mən 

1

: one who sets up or repairs electric wire communication or power lines

called also linesman

2

: a player in the forward line of a team

specifically : a football player in the line

Examples of lineman in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Right tackle Austin Jackson’s four penalties are tied for third-most among offensive linemen. — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 8 Oct. 2026

Colts offensive lineman Matt Goncalves also should be off the hook for his fine of $8,847 for a similar celebration during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs on the same day. — Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026

Same could go for everything-lineman Brady Christensen, who was placed on IR because of a hamstring injury before the season and is thus eligible to return Week 6. — Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 8 Oct. 2026

Lindsey said the Gary line department, which serves Portage, Gary, Merrillville, Hobart, Lake Station and New Chicago, had roughly 30 linemen in the early 2000s. — Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for lineman

• linemen
• steinmann

Kids Definition

lineman

noun

line·​man ˈlīn-mən 

1

: one who sets up or repairs power or telephone lines

2

: a football player whose position is on the line of scrimmage